the heirloom catering team
Formerly known as Palace Café Catering, established in 1999, we rebranded in 2020 as Heirloom Catering Co. to better reflect who we are and what we do best. Like an heirloom plant, cultivated for its superior flavor, productivity and adaptability, our recipe for success includes elevated seasonal food, outstanding, intimate service and custom-tailored experiences.
Go-getters at heart, we are proficient in organization and masters at execution. From the big decisions to the final touches and everything in between, our team will take the stress off of your plate and ensure that no detail goes overlooked.
Donna Eaton, proprietor
After years of hosting some of Silicon Valley's most illustrious events as an owner of Palace Restaurant and Event Center, Donna founded Palace Cafe Catering in 1999. Her goal was to bring the signature dishes and excellent service the restaurant was famous for to private events.
Donna's passion for catering and events started in high school. Working for a premier catering company in her home state of Idaho, she discovered a true talent for transforming venues to host magnificent events.
While pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Business Management at Santa Clara University, Donna catered large events, developing exquisite taste, expansive creative vision and impeccable attention to detail.
Donna’s twenty-plus years of experience make her uniquely qualified to create truly special events for private clients, corporate clients and charity events alike. She loves helping clients envision their ideal event—down to the last detail—and then execute it for them flawlessly.
Donna thrives on the challenge of creating and coordinating successful events while being the mother of three.
Megan barnes, pastry chef
Megan offered an abundance of experience in cooking and baking when she joined the Heirloom team in May, 2022. After earning her bachelor’s degree in Food Service Management as well as an associate’s in Baking and Pastry Arts at Johnson and Wales University in North Miami, FL, Megan cultivated her growing passions in various kitchens throughout the vibrant city.
While apprenticing under Executive Chef, Pierre Pasqueir at the InterContinental Hotel, Megan was introduced to innovative techniques and enticing recipes that would inform and inspire her current style. Her love of cake design and gumpaste flower art sprung from her time working with Chef Alejandra Carnot, of Cake Lounge.
Finally putting her knowledge and skills to the test, Megan led her own Pastry Team as Executive Pastry Chef at the Four Star Opal Sands Resort on Clearwater Beach, FL, designing plated desserts, breads and wedding cakes for 2 restaurants.
Megan eventually moved cross country and landed in the Heirloom kitchen, where she delights at the opportunity to design custom dessert menus for each client. In addition to making breakfast pastries, breads, rolls and mini dessert buffets, she showcases her talent in designing specialty cakes. Megan feels at home and loved working with the Heirloom team, and you can taste that love in her delectable desserts.
amanda tawzer, catering & events manager
Amanda is a dedicated and passionate Catering and Events Manager with years of experience in the hospitality industry. Armed with a degree in Architectural Design and Business Management combined with a knack for crafting and party planning, Amanda loves to curate the event of her clients’ dreams, from intimate dinners to galas and fabulous weddings. She works closely with clients to bring their vision to life, ensuring that every detail is executed flawlessly and providing a seamless and memorable experience that continuously exceeds expectations. Behind the scenes, Amanda brings a sense of fun and creativity to her work, inspiring her teammates to think outside the box and push the boundaries of what's possible.
When Amanda isn't busy executing fabulous events and creating mouthwatering menus, you can find her exploring local hiking spots, chasing her many nieces and nephews around or planning her next adventure. She finds joy in back country camping, skiing and exploring with her people and dogs. Her adventures have taken her to some spectacular places that have provided inspiration for her events along with a sense of enlightenment and creativity. She believes in the power of adventure and food to bring people together and create lasting memories that linger long after the last bite is savored or mountain is explored.
ana janof, HUMAN RESOURCES & ACCOUNTING MANAGER